Chair massage at a wellness center

[DAR]

In talking with a friend this weekend, I found out that a local wellness center who caters to the elderly and mentally challenged, is interested in incorporating chair massage into their program. They will be moving to a larger facility in June and at that point would like to incorporate chair massage.

I would like to approach this woman (who I was told was a "sweetheart" and very receptive). What should I take into consideration when meeting with her? What about charging?

If the person was mentally challenged, what kind of legalities do you think should be considered? Other issues?

Thanks

 

[Mabelline]

The only reservation I would have would be getting the elderly on and off the chair - some have a hard time, especially with getting off. But otherwise, go for it! Those who really can't work with the chair can be massaged in a straight chair turned sideways. If you have a table top face cradle, that would be very nice for them.

I'd have a basic chair massage intake form for each person to sign. With those who are mentally challenged, be sure to ask if they have a guardian. If so, the guardian will need to sign the release for them to receive massage.

With all of them, go very slowly - be calm and patient. You will want to schedule a good 5 minutes between each massage. It will take the whole 5 minutes for some to sit up, reorient themselves, and get off the chair.

Just price it as you normally charge for chair massage. You certainly can give them a break on the price, but really I've found that people either can afford the chair massage or not - a price break doesn't help those who don't have any spending money. I would, however, give the option for 5 minute massages, so that more can afford to do it.

Enjoy. The smiles you'll see will be more than worth your effort!

 

[miguel sabah]

I do chair massage for several seniors. When getting them off the chair, I always stand behind them, with one hand on either side of their waist. I get them to stand up, and then take little baby steps back until they are clear of the chair.

It helps me ascertain whether they are stable and does not encourage them to swing their weight onto one leg and swivel!

 

[Claire]

Make sure they take their time getting off the chair
lifting their head from the headrest
especially it they feel dizzy or light headed.

Its also important to do a proper health history intake


Maria, RMT
Massage in Motion
http://www.massageinmotion.ca